Patient Resources
Pre-Op & Post-Op Instructions
Proper preparation before surgery and following guidelines after your procedure are essential for optimal healing outcomes.
Before Your Procedure
Pre-Operative Preparation
Taking the right steps before your surgery can significantly improve your healing and overall experience. Please review and follow these guidelines in the days leading up to your appointment.
Optimize Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene in the days before surgery can improve surgical outcomes. Brush thoroughly twice daily and floss regularly to reduce bacteria and inflammation in the surgical area.
Stock Your Kitchen
Purchase protein-rich, healthy soft foods before your appointment so you are ready for your post-op diet. Consider items like Greek yogurt, scrambled eggs, smoothies, mashed potatoes, soup, protein shakes, and soft fish.
Update Your Pharmacy
Ensure your pharmacy information is up to date at least one week before your appointment. This allows us to send all post-operative medications in advance so you do not have to wait at the pharmacy after your procedure.
Pre-Operative Ibuprofen
Taking ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) before your surgery can help manage post-operative pain more effectively. Follow our office instructions on timing and dosage for your specific procedure.
Sedation Patients
If you require oral sedation or IV sedation, please contact our office well in advance to sign the necessary consent forms and ensure all sedation medications have been sent to your pharmacy before your appointment.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your surgery. Good hydration supports healing and helps your body recover more efficiently. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your procedure.
Plan for Recovery
Get a good night's sleep before your appointment and arrange your schedule to allow for rest afterward. If receiving sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves to your appointment. This allows easy access for blood pressure monitoring and IV placement if needed. Avoid wearing jewelry or heavy makeup.
Questions?
If you have any questions about preparing for your procedure or need to update your pharmacy or medication information, please contact our office.
Contact UsAfter Your Procedure
Post-Operative Instructions
Proper care following your procedure is essential for optimal healing. Please review and follow these guidelines carefully.
Post-Operative Care Video
Post-Op Care Instructions
Post-Op Instructions Video
Educational videos coming soon
Watch this video for a comprehensive overview of post-operative care following periodontal surgery.
Instructions by Procedure
Select your procedure below to view specific post-operative instructions.
Common Complications & How to Manage Them
Mild to moderate bleeding
Apply firm but gentle pressure to the surgical site with a moistened gauze or black tea bag for 30 minutes. Black tea bags are especially helpful as they contain tannic acid, which aids in the first step of blood clotting. If bleeding does not subside after two attempts, contact your treating office.
Swelling
Swelling is normal and typically peaks around day 2-3. Continue icing 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. If swelling worsens significantly after day 3, contact your treating office.
Bruising
Bruising of the skin or gums near the surgical site is normal and will resolve on its own within 7-10 days. No treatment is needed.
Pain or discomfort
To control pain, please take all medications as prescribed. Typically, alternating Ibuprofen 800mg and Tylenol 1000mg every 3-4 hours will control post-surgical pain. Do not exceed 3,200mg of Ibuprofen or 4,000mg of Tylenol in a 24-hour period (please note these maximums are for healthy adults; those with liver or kidney disease should consult their physician for adjusted dosages). If indicated, an opioid may be prescribed. Please take this medication in place of Tylenol, alongside Ibuprofen, for enhanced pain control. In rare cases, you may return to the office to receive additional Exparel injections after the anesthetic has worn off for extended relief.
Slight oozing or blood-tinged saliva
This is normal for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid spitting forcefully or rinsing vigorously. Gentle salt water rinses can begin 24 hours after surgery.
Difficulty opening mouth
Limited jaw opening (trismus) can occur after surgery, especially in posterior areas. Gently stretch your jaw with slow opening exercises. This typically resolves within 1-2 weeks.
When to Call Us
- Excessive or uncontrollable bleeding
- Severe pain not managed by medication
- Fever above 101.5 F
- Significant swelling after day 3
- Allergic reaction to medication
For all emergencies, contact your treating office immediately. For general questions or concerns, please email info@yantperio.com and we will respond within 48 hours.
Quick Recovery Tips
Learn About Your Procedure
Visit our procedures page for educational videos and detailed descriptions.
View Procedures